Description

Model History

Introduced in 1965 was the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, the company’s first to utilise a monocoque structure, that improved the stiffness of the chassis, while also being more space efficient – most noticeably for the interior space. It retained its boxiness, with slight curves, producing an understated yet elegant appearance. Over the years, Rolls-Royce has upgraded its engine to a 6.75L V8 – power figures were never officially disclosed, however estimated between 190 – 220hp and weighing in at approximately 2200 kg. Top speed was reached at 193 km/h at best and 0-100km/h was achieved in 13.1 seconds. Although not record breaking, the Silver Shadow continued the tradition of being the ‘Best car in the world.’ The Silver Shadow II, featured rack and pinion steering, and improvements to the front suspension, transforming the handling and driving characteristics, whilst retaining Rolls-Royce’s comfort and refinement.

History File

Presented to you at the Car Farm is a 1980 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II, an original Hong Kong market example that is finished in Shell Grey with a Beige interior. This example comes complete with Service History dating back to the year 2012 – with its most recent service including the replacement of the brake master cylinder and brake pressure switch. Over the years, it had essential components replaced, such as the brand new air-conditioning compressor pump, overhauled power steering, handbrake pads, rear drive shaft cv boot and rear axle uni-joint. Consumables such as the ignition coils, fuel hoses, front control arm bushings, a new battery and routine engine and gearbox oil changes have been performed. Due to Silver Shadow II operating on Dual Carburettors, the choke system has been reset and tuned, and the latest engine compression test received a result of 155 PSI. For the interior, both driver and front passenger’s electronic seats are operating as they should, along with the speedometer which has been fixed. The current mileage indicates 24,980km however the keeper is unable to confirm whether it is genuine. This example has 6 previous owners, and a valid road license until 6th September, 2022.

Exterior

The Shell Grey exterior paint on this Silver Shadow II is in excellent condition, as observed from the amount of light that reflects off of its body from all directions. The surrounding brightwork has been well preserved, with little to no signs of oxidation on their surfaces – as observed from items such as the iconic front grille. The Spirit of Ecstasy is finished in gold and has aged gracefully with the slightest hints of patina. Both of the headlights on either side, equipped with wipers are in great condition, with only the left rear light showing signs of classic car patina towards the section of the reverse light in comparison to the right rear light. At the bottom section of the rear bumper, we observed small droplets of excess paint and minor chips of paint towards the left hand side of the twin-exhaust. The factory original Rolls-Royce wheels are free from any signs of kerb rash and are wrapped with a set of period correct white wall tyres. From a complete walk-around, all of the body panels appear aligned and tightly put together, the keeper confirms this is a non-accident and non-rust example.

Interior and Trim

Open up the doors of the ‘Best car in the world’ we are greeted with a grand, and luxurious Beige interior with black piping. For a car of this age, the fit and finish is in great condition, with only the slights signs of creases on the driver’s seat, towards the section that connects the top and the bottom halves. We confirm that the electronic seats are fully operating as they should, a testament to the keeper’s commitment to Rolls-Royce tradition. The walnut wood trim is in excellent condition, with no signs of scratches or cracks, and remain aligned. The same is observed for the leather wrapped dashboard, which remains in one piece, free from any air bubbles and fade from excessive UV exposure. The a modern day retro designed stereo head unit (with BlueTooth and USB functionality) is in place and for the occupants safety, the ‘Fasten Seat Belts’ sign remains illuminated until the Silver Shadow II detects that the seat belts have been secured. All of the dials within the dashboard and cluster gauge are operating as they should, including the speedometer that was repaired. There are only the slightest imperfections observed on the text of Parking Break, Engine Overheat, Washer Fluid and Low Fuel – these do not affect its performance. Similar to the exterior brightwork, the interior brightwork is in excellent condition – while the air conditioning system blows out cold air, thanks to the brand new air-conditioning compressor pump.

Engine and Running Gear

Switching on the 6.75L V8 was an effortless task performed with the turn of the key. Alive was the iconic L410 engine, in a very quiet manner – the Silver Shadow II remained steady, with no vibrations felt within the cabin – a testament to Rolls-Royce’s built quality and commitment to refinement. As most have observed, the Silver Shadow II featured a revised rack and pinion steering, improving the driving experience and handling – ease of parking and ensuring that it is composed in the corners – even in the event of of the uneven surfaces – where occupants are undisrupted from a comfortable ride. The Silver Shadow II’s gear changes were smooth, and although not designed to achieve top speed records, a relaxed and civilised journey from A to B was experienced. The interior noise was to a minimum, and the overall driving experience was able to handle our current day driving conditions. Our Silver Shadow II is perfect for anyone or family looking to experience the ‘Best car in the world’ – a well maintained example of British motoring history now available to you exclusively at the Car Farm.

Buyer’s Premium:

5% of Winning Bid

(Minimum – HKD8,000.00)

(Maximum – HKD50,000.00)